Weather Forecast

Minnesota DNR to ease burning restrictions May 5; Hubbard County's still in effect

Due to the significant rainfall over the past few days in some parts of the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced that open burning restrictions will be eased in many counties.

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on May 5, fire restrictions throughout the southern and central part of the state will be lifted and normal burning permit activities may resume.

Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, that part of Polk east of County Highway 6 and south of State Highway 92, Pine, Roseau, St. Louis and Wadena.

Burning permits will not be issued unless an exception is made by state or federal forestry agencies with fire suppression responsibilities. Campfires will be allowed throughout the restricted area, but limited in Cook, Lake and Northern St. Louis counties.

The far northeastern portion of the state has received only light rain. Because of this, a commissioner's order will continue to impose tighter controls over burning in Cook, and Lake counties, and in St. Louis County north of a line running from Silica to Central Lakes to Brimson. Campfires will only be allowed in designated fire rings associated with a residence, resort, or developed public or private campground. Campfires at remote locations will not be allowed. In addition, fireworks are still forbidden.

Rains over the weekend considerably reduced the threat of wildfires for much of the state, but

it was not enough to end the spring fire season. More rain and greening of vegetation are required before seasonal fire danger abates.

Where burning is allowed, open burning permits can be requested at state and federal forestry offices and fire warden locations. Another option is to purchase an annual $5 permit online.

Burning permits and more information about current restriction levels are available online at www.mndnr.gov.